Former Barcelona and Tottenham Star Paulinho Announces His Retirement From Football

Yesterday, Corinthians legend and former Barcelona star Paulinho announced his retirement from football at the age of 36 via his official Instagram account.

The Brazilian international, who has represented his nation on 56 occasions, had been a free agent after Corinthians released the 36-year-old earlier in the summer. In an emotional farewell video, Paulinho said that he was “privileged to have been a multi-champion and win important things," while also contesting two World Cups and ending up at a club as highly regarded as Barca. The 36-year-old further added by saying, “I left a great legacy. In my last game with Corinthians, with 45 thousand Corinthianos, I felt that it would be my last game, (and that) there would be no better way to say goodbye." 

Paulinho started his professional football career Pao De Acucar. He also had a brief spell in Polish football in mid-2000s, but because of constant racism Paulinho returned home to Brazil. Paulinho's impressive performances at Bragantino caught the attention of Sao Paulo heavyweights Corinthians, leading to a two-year loan move that eventually turned into a permanent deal in 2012. After helping Corinthians clinch the Brazilian Serie A title in 2011, Paulinho's star continued to rise as he played a key role in their Copa Libertadores and Club World Cup triumphs the following year. His standout performances paved the way for a move to the Premier League, where he joined Tottenham Hotspur. 

However, his first bow in English football didn’t go according to the script. After just one season, Paulinho was labeled as one of the biggest flops in English football history. Subsequently, he was shipped off to Chinese Super League side, Guangzhou Evergrande. The Brazilian enjoyed a successful 2-year spell in China. However, what came next completely astounded many fans. Spanish giants Barcelona came calling for Paulinho. The Blaugrana forked out approximately 40-million euros for Paulinho’s services.  

Paulinho quickly became a fan favorite at Barcelona, thanks to his positive attitude, tireless work rate, and nine crucial goals that contributed to their La Liga and Copa Del Rey triumphs under Ernesto Valverde. Barcelona ended up being Paulinho's final European stop, as he returned to Guangzhou, had a stint with Al-Ahli, and ultimately wrapped up his career with Corinthians this year. It's been a remarkable journey for the 56-cap international, one that any Brazilian player who made the leap to Europe would be proud of. 

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